Comagine Health Blog

When people with complex medical and social needs have little support or resources, they may rely on emergency service providers for nonemergent care and even companionship. These high utilizers can overburden emergency medical services and emergency departments, preventing them from addressing true emergencies. The Pierce County Paramedicine Collaboration is a community-driven project to reduce overutilization of emergency medical systems and hospital services by high utilizers while improving their health outcomes.

Charlie, a 78-year-old retired Air Force veteran who suffers from heart failure, diabetes and prostate cancer, was once a high utilizer. His wife of over 50 years had died and he didn’t have any children. He lived…

Five years ago, I had a family member struggling with depression. The medication they had been taking wasn’t effective anymore. They visited their primary care provider, who said they should see a psychiatrist and handed over a piece of paper with four names and phone numbers. Once at home, my family member made four calls and learned that none of the psychiatrists were taking new patients. They were back to square one, except now feeling that even their own doctor couldn’t assist them.…

I live in Portland, Oregon. Like many U.S. cities, Portland is experiencing a very hot real estate market right now. I know many friends and colleagues who are searching for a home that fits their families’ needs and is also affordable. It’s a fine line to walk, especially when there are so many different players in the real estate game, and there’s significant emotional and financial investment involved.

Everyone’s trying to purchase a home of good value — striking that balance…